Everton expects punishment for Fellaini head-butt

Everton's Marouane Fellaini celebrates after scoring against Manchester United during their English Premier League soccer match at Goodison Park Stadium, Liverpool, England, Monday, Aug. 20, 2012.

Jon Super/The Associated Press

Alan Baldwin

LONDON

Reuters

March 26, 2017December 15, 2012

Everton expect midfielder Marouane Fellaini to be punished for an apparent headbutt against Stoke City's Ryan Shawcross that was not seen by the referee, manager David Moyes said on Saturday.

"I would expect us to get the punishment, we'll accept whatever punishment is given out for it," Moyes told Sky Sports News after the 1-1 draw at Stoke that left Everton fourth in the Premier League.

"I've told him [Fellaini] in the dressing-room it's not acceptable and whatever he's handed out, he and us deserve it."

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Belgian international Fellaini told his club's website, evertonfc.com: "I apologize completely to Ryan Shawcross, my team mates and to our fans at the game.

"There was a lot of pushing and pulling going on inside the Stoke penalty area and I didn't feel I was getting any protection from the officials.

"Nevertheless, I know I shouldn't have done what I did.

"I have also apologized to the manager and the staff. I have no excuses. I was disappointed with the way I was being treated and I lost my temper, which was unprofessional of me."

Fellaini was seen to butt the Stoke captain as they jostled for position at a corner taken by the visitors.

Stoke manager Tony Pulis said he was disappointed the incident was not spotted, while expressing support for referee Mark Halsey.

"If people are not seeing them as red cards, then for goodness sake send a memo around and let us know," he told Sky.

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"I've got a lot of respect for Mark...he's been a good referee and I can't tell whether he's seen it or not....if you look at the angles and if he has seen it, again you've got to ask why hasn't he given it?"

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